Will MS Dhoni continue playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL)? Will his franchise, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), retain him in their normal retentions, or will they utilise the new ‘uncapped player’ rule for their all-time great? Everything is up in the air till October 31, the IPL 2025 retention deadline for all franchises. The legendary captain, who guided CSK to their fifth IPL title in 2023 and played only as a player in 2024, has kept his cards close to his chest regarding his future plans. This silence has created a complex scenario for the franchise as they plan their retention strategy.
Harbhajan Singh on CSK’s retentions!
Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh shared his insights on CSK’s potential retention strategy. While acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Dhoni’s future, Harbhajan expressed his belief that the legendary wicket-keeper batter would be the team’s top priority if he decides to continue playing.
“I’m not certain if Dhoni will play or not, but if he’s available, he would certainly be the team’s first choice for retention, even if he is considered an uncapped player this season,” Harbhajan said to StarSports.
Dhoni, who hung up his captaincy boots on the eve of IPL 2024, has been purely participating in the IPL mostly as a wicket-keeper. He has reduced his role to just 10-15 balls per innings, and is not even expected to be part of the league for next 2-3 years. Hence, keeping him for the lowest price of Rs 4 crore could be a shrewd move by CSK.
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Following Dhoni, Harbhajan suggested that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and young talent Rachin Ravindra would be the next two players on CSK’s retention list. The experienced off-spinner also followed it up with Ruturaj Gaikwad as Rs 18 crore pick. Both Gaikwad and Rachin are long-time investments for CSK, with both talents hoping to excel for years to come.
“Second pick would be Ravindra Jadeja, at their would be Rachin Ravindra then Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is the captain, will definitely be retained. So these four players will sure-shot be retained. Apart from them could be Matheesha Pathirana, who is a great bowler, can be looked by CSK for retention.“
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